Airbus A321XLR takes off for the first time

Airbus’ (Hamburg, Germany) first A321XLR (Xtra Long Range) successfully accomplished its first flight on June 15. The aircraft, MSN 11000, took off from Hamburg-Finkenwerder Airport at 11:05 CEST for a test flight which lasted approximately four hours and 35 minutes. The aircraft’s crew consisted of experimental test pilots Thierry Diez and GabrielDiaz de Villegas Giron, as well as test engineers Frank Hohmeister, Philippe Pupin and Mehdi Zeddoun. During the flight, the crew tested the aircraft’s flight controls, engines and main systems, including flight envelope protections, both at high and low speed.

“This is a major milestone for the A320 Family and its customers worldwide,” Phillippe Mhun, Airbus EVP Programmes and Services, says. “With the A321XLR coming into service, airlines will be able to offer long-haul comfort on a single-aisle aircraft, thanks to its unique Airspace cabin. The A321XLR will open new routes with unbeatable economics and environmental performance.” Entry into service is targeted for early 2024. 

According to Airbus, the A321XLR is the next evolutionary step in the A320neo single-aisle family of aircraft, meeting market requirements for increased range and payload, reportedly creating more value for airlines by enabling economically viable services on longer routes than comparable aircraft models. 

The A321XLR will deliver a single-aisle aircraft range of up to 4,700 nautical miles (8,700 kilometers), with 30% lower fuel consumption per seat compared to previous-generation aircraft, as well as reduced nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions and noise. By the end of May 2022, Airbus the A320neo Family has accumulated more than 8,000 orders from more than 130 customers worldwide. A321XLR orders stood at more than 500 from more than 20 customers.